Things to Do at Purple Turtle Beach

Complete Guide to Purple Turtle Beach in Portsmouth

About Purple Turtle Beach

Purple Turtle Beach is a hidden gem located along Portsmouth's impressive coastline, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and maritime charm. This picturesque stretch of pebble beach provides impressive views across the Solent towards the Isle of Wight, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and photography. The beach gets its distinctive name from the purple-hued pebbles that wash ashore, creating a striking contrast against the clear blue waters. The area is particularly beloved by locals and visitors alike for its tranquil atmosphere and excellent opportunities for beachcombing, wildlife watching, and enjoying spectacular sunsets. Unlike some of Portsmouth's busier coastal areas, Purple Turtle Beach maintains a more secluded feel while still being easily accessible from the city center. The beach is also popular among photographers and nature enthusiasts who come to capture the ever-changing light across the water and observe the diverse marine life that inhabits the nearby rock pools.

What to See & Do

Purple Pebble Shore

Explore the unique purple-tinted pebbles that give the beach its name, perfect for collecting and photography

Solent Views

Enjoy panoramic views across the Solent strait with the Isle of Wight visible on clear days

Rock Pool Exploration

Discover fascinating marine life in the natural rock pools during low tide

Sunset Viewing Point

Experience spectacular sunsets over the water, particularly beautiful during golden hour

Coastal Wildlife

Spot various seabirds, crabs, and other coastal wildlife in their natural habitat

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Open 24/7 - public beach with no restricted access hours

Tickets & Pricing

Free admission - no tickets required

Best Time to Visit

Best visited during low tide for rock pool exploration, or 1-2 hours before sunset for photography. Spring and summer months offer warmest weather.

Suggested Duration

2-3 hours for a leisurely visit, or half day for extensive exploration and relaxation

Getting There

Purple Turtle Beach is easily accessible from Portsmouth city center by car, bus, or on foot. From the city center, take the coastal road towards Southsea and follow signs for the seafront. The nearest bus stops are served by local Portsmouth buses with regular services throughout the day. Limited parking is available along the coastal road, though spaces can fill up during peak times and weekends. For those staying in Portsmouth or Southsea, the beach is within walking distance of most accommodations and can be reached via the scenic coastal footpath that runs along Portsmouth's waterfront.

Things to Do Nearby

this destination
Historic Tudor fortress built by Henry VIII, offering exhibitions and commanding coastal views
this destination
World-class maritime attraction featuring this destination, this destination, and this destination
Southsea Common
Large green space perfect for picnics and outdoor activities with additional coastal access
Blue Reef Aquarium
Family-friendly aquarium showcasing marine life from around the world
The D-Day Story
Museum dedicated to the D-Day landings with interactive exhibits and historical artifacts

Tips & Advice

Check tide times before visiting - low tide is best for rock pool exploration and pebble hunting
Bring a camera with extra batteries as the lighting conditions are perfect for photography throughout the day
Wear sturdy footwear as the pebble beach can be challenging to walk on, especially for extended periods
Pack a picnic and drinks as there are limited facilities directly on the beach, though nearby Southsea has plenty of cafes and restaurants

Tours & Activities at Purple Turtle Beach